Statement from Dr. Chris Simpson, president of the Canadian Medical Association

OTTAWA, Aug. 19, 2015 /CNW/ - The CMA is very gratified that health care, particularly for seniors, has surfaced as an election issue. Within the past day, both Liberal leader Justin Trudeau and NDP leader Thomas Mulcair have promised to sit down with the Premiers if they form the next government to discuss the challenges for caring for an aging population.

We are pleased that so early in the election campaign, political leaders are speaking to the need for a national pharmacare program for all Canadians, better home care and long-term care, and an assurance to protect the health care system that Canadians hold so dear.

Canada's physicians remain committed to making better health care for their patients a ballot issue, and we look forward to working with all politicians to provide seniors with the high-quality care they deserve.